Still Cloudy, with Little Chance of Clearing: FDA's Proposed Rule on Structure/Function Claims for Dietary Supplements

The FDA's proposed rule regarding structure/function claims for dietary supplements is intended to give consumers more information about dietary supplements. While "disease claims" are prohibited under the rule, claims that a product affects a structure or function of the body are permissible. However, the distinction between a "disease claim" and a "structure/function claim" ignores the reasons why many consumers turn to dietary supplements. Rather than dispelling confusion surrounding dietary supplements, the proposed rule will only add to it.